How to recognize and treat a herniated cervical disc

Ontario residents who have suffered a back injury may be interested to learn about the symptoms and treatment options for a cervical herniated disc. This type of injury is a common type of cervical spine condition, which usually develops in individuals in the 30- to 50-year-old age range. In most cases, the condition is the result of some kind of trauma; however, the symptoms can appear spontaneously. In other words, the symptoms may develop some time after the original injury took place.

The two most common areas where the cervical spine will herniate are the C5 and C6 levels. When this occurs, the affected individual may feel pain, numbness and tingling down his or her arm. This is the result of the herniated disc pressing or pinching a cervical nerve. The result is pain or other sensations that travel down the pathway of the nerve.

In addition, a pinched nerve can cause muscle weakness. The portion of the arm that is affected by a herniated disc will depend on the location of the herniation. For example, a herniated C4-C5 disc can cause weakness in the upper arm, while a herniated C6-C7 disc can cause weakness in the triceps muscles. In most cases, the pain caused by a herniated disc can be treated with non-surgical options and medication.

If an individual has suffered a back injury as the result of another person's careless or reckless actions, he or she may be entitled to financial compensation for lost wages and expenses related to treatment. A personal injury lawyer may evaluate an individual's case and could work to obtain compensation by way of negotiation or litigation.